There is new energy surrounding a twinned Highway 17, west of Kenora.
Northern Development and Mines and Indigenous Affairs Minister Greg Rickford says he’s tired of seeing the project overlooked.
Rickford says his government is taking a look at its options to ensure work gets started, noting Indigenous communities appear to be mobilizing in support of the project, adding he had positive recent discussions with Shoal Lake #39.
The Kenora-Rainy River MPP says the province is right now finishing off renewed and revitalized consultations with affected First Nations, stressing this was something that was sadly neglected by the previous government.
He adds $100-million promised for the work was spent in another area of Ontario by the Wynne Liberals.
Rickford says a four-laned Trans-Canada is vital to our regional economy as well as public safety.
He is also questioning Federal claims that the ball is now in the province’s court.
There is going to be a public consultation meeting on November 20th in Kenora.
Rickford is hoping for a spring start-up date.
